Journal of Animal Health and Production

Research Article
J. Anim. Health Prod. 1 (4): 36 - 37
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Golo Tshering, Nedup Dorji*
Department of Animal Science, College of Natural Resources, Royal University of Bhutan, Lobesa, Punakha, Bhutan
*Corresponding author: nedup@cnr.edu.bt; nepdorpion186@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT
This study was conducted to examine the gastrointestinal parasites in 480 cattle heads (120 of each breed and age). Fresh faecal samples of cattle were collected directly from rectum and a few samples were picked from the ground just after defecation. These faecal samples were processed by standard floatation method to identify endoparasite species. Microscopic examination revealed that about 211 samples (43.96%) were infected with gastrointestinal parasites. Among parasitic infectioned samples, helminth (54.98 %), protozoa (41.23 %) and mixed (3.79 %) were examined. Balantidium was the most common organism in faecal samples of all age groups. In addition, Strongyle, Ascaris and Coccidia were also present. This study suggests examination of endoparasites in cattle in different seasons and regions of the country. This approach will initiate proper control strategies to minimize parasitic infections.

Key Words: Gastrointestinal parasites, Economic traits, Cattle